Looking at labs: Automatic for the people

Prescription lab tours used to have the air of a physics lesson with an emphasis on electronics, interference patterns, high vacuum technology and sputtering plumes.

Labs have never been more high-tech, but at Hoya’s Wrexham lab, reduced lead times, communication and excellent service are equally likely to be cited as reasons for new equipment investment as edge thickness, improved transmissibility or drilling technology.

Investment in Wrexham is all about supporting independent customers, says managing director, Martin Batho. He nonchalantly describes the lab as much like any modern lab you would find among the leading lenses companies before explaining the investment that has been ploughed into automation.